PR: Greenwood, Fletcher Win U.S. Snowboard Slalom Titles

MAMMOTH LAKES, Calif., March 27 — Jeff Greenwood (Granby, Conn.) and Rosie Fletcher (Girdwood, Alaska) came from behind to win the men’s and women’s U.S. slalom titles at the X-nix U.S. Snowboard Championships Wednesday at sun-bathed Mammoth Mountain.

Greenwood, fifth after the first run, surprised himself with his second run to win the title over Travis McClain (Snowmass, Colo.) and Danish rider Mike Kildevaeld, who finished second and third respectively.

“It really wasn’t a very good run up top, but maybe everyone had a hard time up there,” said Greenwood. “I’m really surprised that I did this well!” First-run leader Thomas O’Brien (Salt Lake City, Utah) fell on the second-to-the-last gate in the second run, clinching the victory for Greenwood.

Fletcher was second after the first run behind U.S. Snowboard Team athlete, and hometown favorite, Erin O’Malley (Mammoth Lakes, Calif.). “I’m really stoked,” said Fletcher of her smooth second run and national title. “The weather definitely plays a big role, having it really nice (over 50 degrees). It’s a really relaxed atmosphere. The competition’s really strong, but this is a really nice atmosphere to race in.”

“I love racing at home,” said O’Malley, who was thrilled with her second-place finish, her best career result at nationals. “The race department here is so fantastic and everyone is so supportive — it’s great to be home.”

Greenwood and Fletcher both earned $1,100 in prize money for their winning efforts. Second-place finishers take home $700 in cash, with third-place taking home $500. “I won $1,100?” said a surprised Greenwood. “I’m going to Barbados!” Greenwood and U.S. Snowboard teammate Anton Pogue (Hood River, Ore.), along with several members of the Canadian snowboard team, will spend a little time unwinding from the intense competition season with a tropical vacation next month. “So this prize money will pay for my trip,” said Greenwood.

Competition at the X-nix U.S. Snowboard Championships continues Thursday with men’s and women’s giant slalom at June Mountain.